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Chhath Puja is a prominent festival celebrated in the North Indian state of Bihar, as well as certain regions of Uttar Pradesh and Nepal. This four-day festival, which starts on the 6th day of the Hindu calendar month "Kartika," is dedicated to the worship of the Sun god and his wife Usha. It is believed that the Sun god heals several health conditions and offers longevity, progress, positivity, prosperity, and well-being. Chhath Puja is not only celebrated in Bihar but also in various destinations across India, including Jharkhand, eastern UP, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Bangalore, Chhattisgarh, and regions of Nepal.
The History and Significance of Chhath Puja
The exact origin of Chhath Puja is ambiguous, but there are connections to Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. According to legend, Lord Rama and his wife Sita observed a fast in honor of the Sun god upon their return to Ayodhya. This ritual subsequently evolved into Chhath Puja. Additionally, Karna, a famous character from the Mahabharata, who was believed to be the child of the Sun god and Kunti, used to offer prayers while standing in the water. Draupadi and the Pandavas also performed a similar puja to regain their kingdom.
Chhath Puja holds not only religious but also scientific significance. Taking dips in water and exposing the body to the sun during this festival helps detoxify the body, increases the flow of solar bioelectricity, kills harmful bacteria, and prepares the body for the upcoming winter season. The rigorous routine and rituals of Chhath Puja, including fasting, offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, holy bathing, and meditation in water, contribute to overall physical and mental well-being.
Rituals and Traditions of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival that begins four days after Diwali. Let's explore the rituals and traditions associated with each day:
Day 1: Nahay Khay
On the first day of Chhath Puja, devotees take a holy dip in rivers such as the Kosi, Ganga, and Karnali. They then bring home the holy water to prepare offerings. This ritual, known as Nahay Khay, is considered one of the most important aspects of Chhath Puja.
Day 2: Lohanda or Kharna
The second day involves a complete fast without water. It ends after sunset, and devotees break their fast by preparing offerings like kheer, bananas, and rice. They worship the Sun and the Moon, and after consuming the prasad, they begin a 36-hour fast without water.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings)
The third day of Chhath Puja includes another day of fasting without water. Devotees spend the entire day preparing puja offerings, including thekua, coconut, bananas, and other seasonal fruits. In the evening, they gather at the banks of a river, pond, or clean water body to offer 'araghya' to the setting sun.
Day 4: Bihaniya Arghya
On the final day of Chhath Puja, devotees assemble once again at the banks of a river or water body to offer prayers and prasad to the rising sun. After the offerings are made, they break their fast by consuming ginger and sugar or any locally available food. With the completion of these rituals, the Chhath Puja festivities come to an end.
Chhath Puja is a unique festival with several interesting facts associated with it:
1. Chhath Puja is the only Vedic festival celebrated in India.
2. It is connected to Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
3. The rituals of Chhath Puja have scientific significance, promoting detoxification and boosting immunity.
4. Chhath Puja traditions are crafted to optimize the absorption of calcium and Vitamin D, particularly beneficial for women.
5. The celebration of Chhath Puja has mental benefits, calming the mind and reducing negative energies.
6. The custom of offering prayers to the Sun god has ancient roots in Babylonian and ancient Egyptian civilizations.
Famous Sun Temples Associated with Chhath Puja
To enhance the Chhath Puja experience, you can also explore some of the famous Sun Temples of India. Here are a few notable ones:
Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha
Built in the 13th century, the Sun Temple in Konark is a popular attraction that attracts numerous tourists during Chhath Puja. Its architectural beauty and religious significance make it a must-visit destination.
Sun Temple in Modhera, Gujarat
The Sun Temple in Modhera is known for its ancient architecture and religious importance. It consists of the gudhamandapa (main hall), Sabhamandapa (assembly hall), and Kunda (reservoir). This temple is another significant destination for Chhath Puja celebrations.
Sun Temple in Ranchi
The Sun Temple in Ranchi is a prime attraction of the state, designed like a huge chariot with 18 wheels and seven horses. The temple's pond is also considered sacred, making it a popular spot for Chhath Puja celebrations.
Dakshinaarka Sun Temple in Gaya, Bihar
Dedicated to the Sun god, the Dakshinaarka Sun Temple is an ancient shrine and pilgrimage center. It is known for offering Pind daan, a ritual to honor the deceased, and holds religious importance during Chhath Puja.
Sun Temple in Katarmal, Uttarakhand
The Sun Temple in Katarmal is another famous temple that devotees can explore during Chhath Puja. Its historical and architectural significance make it a noteworthy site for celebrations.
Sun Temple in Gwalior
The Sun Temple in Gwalior is an architectural wonder made of red sandstone and white marble. Its beauty attracts numerous people, including Chhath Puja celebrants, who visit to pay homage to the Sun god.
Chhath Special Trains by IRCTC
Chhath Puja is a grand Hindu festival that attracts people from various parts of the country, especially Bihar. If you are planning to travel to Bihar for Chhath Puja, here are some trains you can consider:
Trains for Mumbai to Patna Route
• Bandra Terminus Patna Express
• Lokmanyatilak Terminus Patna Junction Superfast Special
• Lokmanyatilak Terminus Kamakhya AC Express
• Vasco Da Gama Patna Express
Trains for Delhi to Patna Route
• U A Toofan Express
Trains for Bangalore to Patna Route
• Patna Premium S
• Sanghamitra Express
• Bagmati Express
Trains for Hyderabad to Patna Route
• Secunderabad Junction Patna Junction Express
• Secunderabad Junction Patna Junction Special
Trains for Chennai to Patna Route
• Patna Premium S
• Patna Express
Conclusion
Chhath Puja is a sacred festival dedicated to the Sun god and his wife Usha. With its rich history, religious significance, and scientific benefits, this festival holds a special place in the hearts of people in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. By understanding the rituals and traditions associated with Chhath Puja, we can appreciate the diversity of culture and the beauty of this festival. Whether you choose to celebrate Chhath Puja in your hometown or explore the famous Sun Temples of India, this festival is a time of joy, gratitude, and devotion to the Sun god.